GM will equip Chevy Equinox with fuel-saving technology

General Motors' revamped Chevrolet Equinoxcrossover will carry direct-injection engine technology across the line, boosting fuel economy in the base model while delivering the same amount of horsepower.

The move will contribute to GM's goal of equipping most of its North American vehicles with direct injection. In the 2010 model year, GM says it will have 18 vehicles with the technology, including the Equinox, which goes on sale next summer.

The feature increases performance while curbing fuel consumption and emissions. GM plans to show the 2010 Equinox next month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit

The base version will be powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 180 hp, about the same as the current V-6, GM said in a statement. The automaker expects that vehicle to deliver 30 mpg in highway driving. There is no four-cylinder 2009 model. The current Equinox has an EPA fuel-economy rating of 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway.

A 3.0-liter, direct-injected V-6 will be optional. That engine is rated at 255 hp. It will replace a 185-hp, 3.4-liter V-6 built in China that dates to the 1970s.

GM Powertrain spokesman Tom Read said the new V-6 will be built at GM's St. Catharines,Ontario, plant. The four-cylinder engine will be made at the former Saturn plant in Spring Hill, Tenn.